Savannah was our 13th colony’s first city, original capital and the first planned city in America. As you would expect from the nation’s largest registered urban historic landmark district with over 1,600 restored structures, our history is alive, strong and well-preserved.
The Historic District is a 2.5-square-mile walking district with architecture representative of most of our Nation’s 18th and 19th century styles. The home of Juliette Gordon Low, founder of the Girl Scouts of America; Hodgson Hall, home to the oldest historical society in the Southeast and the Telfair Museum of Art, designed by William Jay, are just a few symbols of Savannah’s outstanding historical aesthetic.
Savannah’s many forts and historical sites bring to life much of our nation’s early military history. Fort Pulaski, Old Fort Jackson and the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum offer glimpses into battles as far back as the Revolutionary War and up to World War II.
It is absolutely true that Savannah is a historical city with much to offer any history, architecture or art enthusiast, but over the years Savannah has come into her own as a modern, hip city with a flair for unique cultural activities. If I dare say so, we do an amazing job of balancing our rich, historical past with our evolving creative culture.
Sure, you could spend all day researching the history of the Central of Georgia Railroad, at the Roundhouse Railroad Museum – but you could just as easily explore our brand spankin’ new Jepson Center for the Arts. This Moshe Safdie designed architectural masterpiece opened in the Spring of 2006 and is a beautiful, modern combination of glass and stone that added 64,000 square feet to the Telfair, the “oldest public art museum in the South.”
The progression of Savannah from historical centerpiece to a savvy, cultural hub has been a natural one. Savannah may be steeped in history, but we embrace the blending of old and new. Artists of all kinds have consistently been inspired by Savannah and all she has to offer. From Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken to Big Boi from OutKast and India.Arie, artists of all genres have used inspiration from Savannah to propel their art.
The frequent exhibitions of local works, ranging from sculptures and paintings to songs and spoken word lead to a full calendar of artistic and cultural events throughout the year. A city like this offers enough culture to satisfy even the most sophisticated urban dwellers.
